Carborundum
Silicon Carbide (Moissanite-6H) · Industrial Mineral / Collector Mineral / Synthetic Specimen
Crystal System
Hexagonal; typically occurs as synthetic drusy or massive aggregations of hexagonal plates
Mineral Group
None (Synthetic Carbide); naturally occurring moissanite is a Native Element
Chemical Formula
SiC
Formation Process
Synthetic; created via the Acheson process by heating silica sand and carbon in an electric resistance furnace
About This Crystal
Deep black to dark green iridescent masses with a metallic to sub-metallic luster; features sharp, plate-like crystal faces and rainbow-like oil-slick surface interference
Physical Characteristics
Black/dark green body color; black-gray streak; 3.21 specific gravity; brittle tenacity; non-magnetic; features rainbow iridescence from thin-film oxidation
Optical Properties
High refractive index (2.65-2.69); strong birefringence; high dispersion (0.104); synthetic material shows intense metallic iridescence
Hardness & Durability
Origin Region
Produced globally in industrial furnaces (Acheson process); natural form found in meteorites like Canyon Diablo, Arizona
Hardness & Durability
Mohs hardness of 9.5; extremely hard and durable; used as an industrial abrasive; high heat resistance
Care & Maintenance
Highly stable; resistant to most acids and chemicals; clean with warm soapy water; handle carefully as sharp edges can scratch glass or skin
Rarity & Value
Very common as a synthetic industrial material; inexpensive for decorative specimens; natural moissanite is extremely rare
Special Characteristics
Strong iridescence (thin-film interference); semiconducting properties; extreme hardness second only to diamond and boron nitride
Lore & History
Discovered in 1891 by Edward Acheson. Historically used as an abrasive; in modern practices, it is believed to help with mental focus and shielding from negativity.